Module Directory

This module focuses on applying an evidence-based approach to practice through developing key skills in searching for, selecting and appraising evidence relevant to a topic of choice.

It examines the processes in which research is undertaken and how research design and interpretation have implications for quality and transferability to practice, and therefore clinical reasoning as a speech and language therapist. It supports the development of critical appraisal skills and enhances knowledge of research methods.

The aims of this module are:

• To introduce students to the role of reviewing research literature as part of evidence-based practice.


• To enable students to utilise advanced literature searching strategies and resources to collate evidence relevant to a clinical topic of interest.


• To introduce students to the fundamentals of research methodologies and methods including data analysis, and research ethics.


• To provide students with frameworks to undertake a critical appraisal of a body of research in a clinical area.


• To enable students to apply these skills to answer an evidence-based question and identify avenues for future research.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Describe the application of evidence-based practice and the role of research in speech and language therapy.


2. Employ research tools, strategies and frameworks to construct practice-based questions.


3. Apply systematic search strategies to retrieve relevant peer-reviewed articles and grey literature.


4. Summarise research processes and approaches.


5. Examine research method(s) and discuss research ethics from the perspective of a research participant.


6. Appraise a body of research to answer a specific question relevant to clinical practice.


7. Produce work using language appropriate to the discipline and required ethical and professional standards.


8. Use appropriate citation and referencing protocols.


9. Make claims that are proportionately supported by research evidence.

Professional body requirements

In order to meet accreditation requirements students will be required to pass this module.

Overview:

This module equips students with foundational knowledge of research and crucial critical appraisal skills relevant to evidence-based practice. It provides the essential foundations to support students to undertake their dissertation the following year.

The module covers topics including:

• Evidence based practice


• Advanced literature searching


• Quantitative research and statistics


• Qualitative research


• Mixed-methods research


• Critical appraisal and critical thinking


• Research ethics


• Writing a literature review

The module will involve lectures introducing key concepts and topics accompanied by practice seminar sessions which will involve practical activities, small-group work and journal clubs. This module also includes essential self-directed learning activities.

This module will be delivered via:

• One 3-hour lecture each morning per week – total of 13 sessions
• One 2-hour seminar each afternoon – total of 13 sessions

There will be specific self-directed learning activities which students must undertake. Students must also undertake the relevant readings and preparation work to engage in discussion, particularly for the seminars.